Egypt’s presidency issued a statement on Saturday night denouncing Friday’s sectarian violence that took place between Muslims and Christians in the town of Al-Khasous in Qalyoubia.

At least five people were killed by gunshot and seven nine injured in Al-Khosous on Friday.

According to the MENA state news agency, clashes erupted early Saturday between Muslim and Christian teenagers after the latter allegedly painted offensive drawings on the gates of an a local Azhar institute.

In the statement, the presidency sent its condolences to the families of the slain, vowing to strictly defy any attempts of inciting a sectarian strife among Egyptians.

“The presidency is calling on citizens to respect the law, and to avoid any actions that harm the security and stability in Egypt,” added the statement stressing that the presidency is following the investigations underway.